Patrolman Clarence E. Hamler

Clarence E. Hamler

Patrolman Hamler was shot and killed when he interrupted a robbery on his way to work around 1:30 p.m. at the Red Food Store on S. Broad Street.

He had stopped at a grocery store to visit his brother when two armed robbers entered. As Patrolman Hamler rounded a corner, one of the suspects shot him in the head and neck. Patrolman Hamler's brother picked up his gun and fatally wounded one of the suspects.

The second suspect, age 53, was added to the FBI Ten Most Wanted List and was apprehended three months later. He was given a death sentence, which was later reduced to life. In 1956, the suspect was the first criminal to be sentenced to life under Tennessee's new habitual criminal act. He had spent most of his life in prison and had escaped several times. He was out on work release when he killed Patrolman Hamler.

Patrolman Hamler had served with the Chattanooga Police Department. He was survived by his wife and two sons.